The design, which some residents have dubbed the "Thunderdome" from the Mad Max film, attempts to blend modern architecture with the existing heritage-listed Mechanics Hall.

Architect Simon Whibley told ABC Gippsland's Mornings program, he understood the community's concern but he wanted it to understand the new library would be more than just a space for books.

"This debate is really important to have and it's great it's being had as well. It's important on the one had to question change, but on the other hand, to realise opportunity," Mr Whibley said.

"We think at least quite strongly, there is an opportunity here for the library to open up and engage with the larger community now. The different programs that can be run out of libraries have changed, events can be held there, performances, all sorts of things.

"It's a much more of a vibrant space than it was 20 or 30 years ago."

Mr Whibley insisted comments and input from the public were vital during the design process which was in its early stages.

"You tend to get the feeling that people think this is the finished and complete item," he said.

"There are some key ideas on how the library space is arranged, the way in which the new library connects to the old and the way in which the new building sits up against the existing one.

"There's still development to be done and the idea that we go out to the community with something that is complete, is not the best way to go about it. We want to encourage people to have their say."

Mr Whibley said East Gippsland Shire would contribute $1.5 million to the $6 million project with the rest of the funding to be sought from external sources such as the State Government funded 'Living Libraries' program.